Marian Anderson

Marian Anderson, the legendary American contralto, captivated audiences worldwide with her extraordinary vocal range and profound emotional depth. Born in South Philadelphia, Anderson's career spanned four decades, from 1925 to 1965, during which she performed a vast array of musical genres, from opera to spirituals, with some of the most prestigious orchestras in the United States and Europe. Her fame was monumental, with over 1,200 books and articles dedicated to her life and work. Anderson is perhaps best known for her historic Easter Sunday recital on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1939, a powerful statement against racial discrimination. She was also the first African American singer to grace the stage of the Metropolitan Opera. Renowned for her distinctive and generous voice, Anderson's legacy as a civil rights pioneer and musical icon endures, inspiring generations with her artistry and courage.